A Comparison of Cloud SaaS vs On-Premise
There are very few businesses that don’t understand how essential technology is to success in the modern world. But along with the technology our digital age affords comes the need to invest in the software to support it. The fast moving nature of the industry means there are a myriad of options not only for the software itself, but also for its method of delivery.
Deciding whether to opt for the deployment of cloud-based software that’s delivered via an internet connection or invest in on-premise solutions is one that requires very careful consideration, based on a business’s individual requirements, capabilities and expectations. Employing a consultant like Defended Solutions allows you to navigate the tricky waters of comparison with ease, because we understand the pros and cons of both methods and the things that you, as a business, need to ask yourself in order to make an informed choice.
Cloud SaaS or On-Premise?
Traditionally, the only way to acquire and access software systems was to purchase them outright from a provider then install onto an onsite server or computer. While it is still commonplace, particularly in larger organizations, accessing cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) delivered via the Internet is now becoming the method of choice for many businesses.
It’s a complex topic and there are some major differences between Cloud SaaS and On-Premise solutions but, when you consult with us, we’ll figure out together what’s best for your business so you can make the right choice.
What You Need to Consider
The major things to think about when making your decision come down to a handful of vital factors:
Cost
Security
Compliance
Maintenance
Support
Mobility of your workforce
In terms of cost, the decisions are usually clear cut: cloud based products attract multiple fees that cover things like support, licensing and maintenance, which in most cases are bundled together so the user pays a single monthly or annual price. It’s usually relatively easy to install, not requiring a dedicated IT professional. On the other side of the coin, on-premise software usually requires high priced hardware and installation costs, as well as the input and support of dedicated in-house IT staff.
Other aspects require more in-depth consultation for us to ascertain the capabilities and requirements of your business. For example, on-premise software offers clear security benefits in comparison to cloud-based solutions where the user doesn’t have access to the ‘back end’ of the system. But in terms of compliance, Cloud SaaS provides instant downloads with little input and minimal downtime, whereas an onsite system may require a visit from a provider’s representative. You also need to weigh up the benefits and weaknesses in both systems’ contingency capabilities for data recovery in the event of a disaster.
The importance of being able to facilitate a home-based or large remote workforce has become of huge importance over the past year, and this is another area in which we’ll work with you to ascertain your requirements and ensure your choice is the right one for your organization. For maintenance and support aspects, we’ll help you consider issues like access, the size of your team and the number of sites, among other things.
The Importance of a Knowledge Based Decision
As you can see there’s no single clear-cut decision as to which is the superior choice, because every business will have different needs and challenges. While for some small start-ups (for example), Cloud SaaS makes for a quick and efficient option, for others the security and data ownership benefits of an on-premise system may tip the scales.
It’s important to understand that each factor that determines the particular system’s suitability needs to be considered on its own merit and not just over-ridden by the issue of cost. When you’re making decisions like this that will fundamentally change the way your workplace operates, you need to think about the nature, IT skills and size of your workforce (and their responsibilities), convenience of access (including remote workforce), as well as security and trust considerations.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Again with the caveat that every business is different, the advantages of each system can be broken down relatively easily.
Cloud SaaS Pros
Cheaper to install and operate
Monthly or annual subscription
No specialist expertise required to download
Hosted externally, routine backups
Ability to scale up without affecting performance
Reliable, no technical participation required
Easier immediate access to remote workforce
All support handled off site
Cloud SaaS Cons
Data not accessible without Internet connection
Data entrusted to third party
Not as flexible to customization or integration with existing software
On-Premise Pros
More control over data protection
Ability to integrate with other systems
Better/more stringent security
Ability to customise
On-Premise Cons
More difficult to access by remote workforce
Slower to implement throughout organization
Scalability requires more planning and man-hours
Consult the Experts
Such an important and complicated decision should not be made without in-depth analysis and consultation in order to understand the ramifications of either method of software delivery. Working with Defended Solutions will allow you the peace of mind and confidence to know that you’re making an informed decision based on your organization’s particular financial and operational requirements.
If you’d like to find out more about Cloud SaaS, an On-Premise solution or any other service we offer, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our consultants who would be happy to discuss a bespoke solution for your business needs.
